Richard Zohr is the Chief of the Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation. (Sherry Haaima photo)
It might be an exciting time for the Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation (BAFN) with the opening of the Indigenous Cultural Centre just around the corner, but the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) will nonetheless be a solemn occasion.
Chief Richard Zohr says that while drumming and ceremony may be part of some NDTR activities, the day’s focus should be about teaching people and recognizing the great wrongs done to Indigenous people and how to rebuild what they’ve lost.
It’s something Zohr gets emotional just talking about and something the new Indigenous Cultural Centre, opening in the coming months at the myFM Centre (formerly the Ma-te-Way Activity Centre) will help to teach about.
The idea behind the centre is just that – to focus on traditional teachings, support Indigenous people, but also to bring the non-Indigenous in to learn about the culture, to hopefully understand that history and what was lost, said Zohr.
How can the greater community support Bonnechere Algonquin First Nation and the centre?
Get involved, says Chief Zohr.
While work is still being done on parts of the centre, including the one-of-a-kind medicine wheel that is arguably the focal point of the entire space, there is light at the end of the tunnel.
The Bonnechere of Algonquin First Nation is grateful to have had the opportunity to work with the town on the cultural centre and when it is complete, Renfrew will have a one-of-a-kind facility that can serve as an example.
The realization of this dream is something of which Zohr is proud.
Zohr said Circle of Turtle Lodge will have an office within the centre, also, something he’s excited about.
The public will likely have an opportunity for a sneak peek at least part of the Indigenous Cultural Centre when the town hosts an open house at the myFM Centre on Saturday, Oct. 12.
(Written by Sherry Haaima)